Art
The fusion of European, African and Taino (indigenous persons of the Dominican Republic) traditions and customs contributed to the development of present-day Dominican culture and art. Dominican art is perhaps most commonly associated with the bright, vibrant colors and images centered on national independence, historical scenes, portraits, still life and landscapes.
Many times when you see Dominican artwork (paintings, sculptures, etc.) you see the artist left the face unfinished. This is meant to symbolize that the Dominican Republic has a very diverse background and one face cannot accurately portray the Dominican people.
Typically paintings and wooden statures are bought by tourist to take home as the painting can be rolled up and carried on board and the wooden statues can be safely packed away in a suitcase.
Cigars
While Cuban cigars might be better known, Dominican cigars are some of the best in the world - some argue the best. Many of the Cuban cigar rollers who moved to the Dominican Republic years ago not only brought their talent but they also brought the Cuban tobacco seed as well. Now the Dominican Republic has some of the best rollers and great seeds as well.
Rum
Caribbean rum is known around the world and we have two great companies here – Barceló and Brugal. Try some of local rum here while on vacation and then take some home with you. You will be surprised by the flavors and the smoothness of the rum.
Mamajuana
Mamajuana is a Dominican Republic drink formulated by allowing rum, red wine, and honey to soak in a bottle of tree bark and herbs. Buy a bag of dry mamjuana (tree bark and herbs) and your favorite rum and you can make Mamajuana at home.
Jewelry
Amber is a stone that is prevalent in the Dominican Republic. Dominican amber is a resin from the extinct Hymenaea Protera tree. Dominican amber differentiates itself from other types of amber because it is nearly always transparent and it contains a higher number of fossil inclusions.
Be careful where you buy your amber. Some street vendors and some stores sell fake amber. Please call us so we can take you to a reputable seller.
Musical Instruments
Güira is a round, steel, hollow drum scraped along the side to produce the desired sound and the
Tambora (Dominican drum) is a two-headed drum typically used in merengue music.
Need Help Getting Around
If you need help getting around the city of Santo Domingo or anywhere else in the Dominican Republic, please contact us for pricing and availability. Our reservations department and many of our drivers speak English.
American Phone: 1-305-204-6504
Dominican Phone: 1-829-994-5150
Email: [email protected]
